Tasmania Bushfires 2025: Extreme Winds Ground Aircraft as Homes Face Immediate Threat

Emergency crews battled multiple dangerous bushfires across Tasmania on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Extreme wind gusts over 100 km/h grounded all firefighting aircraft for critical hours, severely hampering the response. The Tasmania Fire Service issued urgent “Evacuate Now” warnings for communities including Glenlusk, Dolphin Sands, and Levendale as out-of-control flames threatened properties.

According to ABC Emergency, the combination of strong winds, high temperatures, and rapidly dropping humidity created catastrophic fire conditions. The situation stretched ground resources thin and forced residents to flee with little notice. The day marked one of the most severe fire threats the state has faced in recent years.

Unflyable Conditions Cripple Initial Firefighting Response

The crisis was amplified by dangerous weather. Wind gusts reached 102 km/h in Hobart and 113 km/h at Maria Island. These conditions made it impossible for aerial water-bombing aircraft to operate safely during the initial outbreak. This left ground crews as the sole defense against the fast-moving blazes for several hours.

Regional Fire Commander Simon Pilkington described the conditions as “pretty unfavourable.” He noted the erratic wind behavior made fire prediction and containment efforts exceptionally difficult. By late afternoon, as winds subsided, six aircraft were finally deployed to assist the exhausted ground teams.

Glenlusk and Dolphin Sands: Communities Under Direct Fire Assault

In Glenlusk, northwest of Hobart, a fire ignited on Molesworth Road just after midday. Driven by strong westerly winds, it spread rapidly towards the east. Authorities issued an emergency warning for residents within Brinkmans Road, Faulkners Road, and Molesworth Road to leave immediately.

Police closed Glenlusk Road and assisted with evacuations. Meanwhile, on the east coast at Dolphin Sands, the situation turned tragic. At least one home was confirmed destroyed by the flames. The property owners shared their devastation on social media, stating the loss of their home was heartbreaking.

Evacuation Orders and Health Warnings Issued Statewide

Officials urged people not to wait for an official warning if they felt threatened. “If you can reasonably remove yourself from an area… please take that action early,” Commander Pilkington advised. Evacuation centers were being prepared, and key roads were closed for public safety.

The Department of Health issued smoke alerts for affected regions. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions were advised to have personal health plans ready. Thick smoke from the fires was observed travelling downhill towards suburbs, reducing air quality significantly.

The Tasmania bushfires of December 2025 underscore the volatile nature of wildfire emergencies, where weather can instantly disable critical resources. Community vigilance and early action remain the most vital defenses when seconds count.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Where were the Tasmania bushfires located?

The most serious fires were reported at Glenlusk near Hobart, Dolphin Sands on the east coast, and Levendale. Emergency warnings were active for these areas, prompting evacuations.

Q2: Why were firefighting planes not used initially?

Extreme wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h made it too dangerous for aircraft to fly. They were grounded for several hours until the wind speed decreased later in the afternoon.

Q3: Were any homes lost in the fires?

Yes. Authorities confirmed at least one home was destroyed at Dolphin Sands. Impact assessment teams were working to determine the full extent of property damage.

Q4: What should residents do during a bushfire warning?

If an “Evacuate Now” warning is issued for your area, leave immediately. Do not wait. Have a bushfire survival plan prepared well before the fire season starts.

Q5: Is the bushfire threat now over?

While conditions eased slightly, the fire danger remained high. Residents must continue to monitor official channels like the TFS website and ABC Local Radio for updates.